Which of the following statements about sculptures at Sanchi is/are correct ? 1. In some sculptures there is representation of Shalabhanjika. 2. The figure of Shalabhanjika is represented by a woman surrounded by lotuses and elephants. 3. The Shalabhanjika motif was not directly inspired by Buddhist ideas. Select the correct answer using the code given below :

The sculptures at Sanchi prominently feature the Shalabhanjika motif, which depicts a woman standing in a graceful pose while holding a branch of a tree. This figure was initially a puzzle for art historians as it did not seem to have a direct connection to Buddhist teachings [1]. Research revealed that the motif was derived from pre-Buddhist and non-Buddhist popular traditions, specifically fertility rites where a maiden's touch caused trees to blossom. Thus, it was not directly inspired by Buddhist ideas but was incorporated into the stupa's decoration as an auspicious symbol [1]. Statement 2 is incorrect because the description of a woman surrounded by lotuses and elephants refers to the motif of Gajalakshmi (or Maya), not Shalabhanjika [2]. Therefore, only statements 1 and 3 are correct.

Sources

1. [1] THEMES IN INDIAN HISTORY PART I, History CLASS XII (NCERT 2025 ed.) > Chapter 4: Thinkers, Beliefs and Buildings > 9.3 Popular traditions > p. 101
2. [2] THEMES IN INDIAN HISTORY PART I, History CLASS XII (NCERT 2025 ed.) > Chapter 4: Thinkers, Beliefs and Buildings > Paintings from the past > p. 103